USTP Jasaan strengthens campus safety through VAWC campaign
By James Ryan I. Lindongan, The Cache Publication, USTP Jasaan
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In a strong move to promote awareness, protection, and shared responsibility within the academic community, the Guidance and Student Welfare Service Unit, in partnership with the Gender and Development (GAD) of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines – Jasaan, held a symposium tackling sexual harassment and violence against women and children on March 25, 2026, at the USTP Jasaan Covered Court. With the theme, “Safe Campuses, Shared Responsibility: Strengthening Awareness of Legal Protection and Action Against Sexual Harassment and VAWC,” the whole-day event gathered students from all departments, along with faculty and staff, for a timely discussion on legal protection, reporting systems, survivor support, and mental well-being.
The symposium aimed to deepen the university community’s understanding of Republic Act No. 7877, also known as the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995, and Republic Act No. 9262, also known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004—two key laws that protect individuals from abuse, harassment, and violence.
The morning session opened with a lecture from Ms. Audiemer Z. Rodriguez, RSW, MSWD Officer of the Local Government Unit of Jasaan, who discussed “Understanding Sexual Harassment and VAWC: Legal Protection, Reporting Mechanisms, and Survivor Support”. In her talk, Ms. Rodriguez explained the different forms of sexual harassment and abuse, the legal rights of victims and survivors, and the proper channels for seeking help and reporting cases. She also stressed the importance of creating a culture where survivors are heard, protected, and supported.
Another key session followed through “Creating Space for Women,” led by PSSg. Roxanne Melody V. Camarillo and PSSg. Mary Jane McEvoy of the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD), PNC, Jasaan Municipal Police Station. Their discussion highlighted the role of law enforcement, the importance of safe spaces for women, and the responsibility of institutions and individuals in helping prevent gender-based violence and abuse.
More than presenting laws and policies, the speakers challenged the audience to recognize that campus safety does not depend on a single office or authority, but on everyone’s willingness to speak up, respect boundaries, and take action when necessary.
In the afternoon session, Ms. Shayne P. Jayo, LPT, RPM, MAGC (CAR), Guidance Advocate of USTP Jasaan, delivered a lecture on “Mental Health for Women’s Well-being”. Her discussion focused on the emotional and psychological impact of abuse, discrimination, and harassment, emphasizing that women’s safety also includes mental and emotional protection. She underscored the importance of self-awareness, emotional support, and access to guidance services in helping individuals heal and remain empowered.
Through the three-part symposium, participants were reminded that addressing sexual harassment and violence requires not only legal awareness but also empathy, vigilance, and collective action. The event served as both an educational platform and a call for stronger community involvement in protecting the dignity, safety, and well-being of every individual on campus.
As conversations on gender sensitivity, student welfare, and campus safety grow increasingly urgent, USTP Jasaan’s initiative stands as a clear step toward building a more informed, responsive, and secure academic environment—one where protection is not just policy but a shared responsibility.
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